Ahead of the 2023 AFL National Draft next Monday, Crows midfielder Jake Soligo reflects on his draft day back in 2021 and gives some advice to this year’s potential selections.

It was only two years ago that the Crows called out my name at the 2021 AFL National Draft but for me, it seems like such a long time ago now.

I don’t really remember too much about the lead up to the Draft but the thing I remember the most is just being super nervous.

I was so nervous in the days leading up to the Draft as well as on both nights.

Being selected by an AFL Club and being on a list was everything I had ever worked towards and thinking about the fact it might not go my way was tough but I tried to just go about the day as normally as I could.

I knew I probably wasn’t going to be selected on the first night, so I watched it on TV with a mate from Eastern Ranges, Tyler Sonsie, who Richmond picked.

I was so stoked for him and obviously still hopeful of my dream coming true.

As the Draft was run over two nights, the second day for me, was a bit more hectic.

We had a big family lunch with everyone at our house - it was Mum, Dad, my sister and her husband, as well as my grandparents and cousins.

It was nice to spend time with the family but again, it was pretty hard for me to contain my nerves.

A few of my mates came over that night to watch the Draft with me and my family and, I’ve got to be honest, it felt like a long wait before my name was called out.

It’s so hard to put into words the range of emotions that run through your head as you sit there watching clubs cycle through their picks and knowing that your name hasn’t been called out yet.

There’s a video of me, just before Adelaide selected me, which shows me sitting on the couch, surrounded by all my family and friends, and I’m just biting my nails, staring at the TV.

Suddenly, Pick No.36 rolls around.

The Crows call out my name and it’s just pure elation.

There was also a bit of shock, as I only had one interview with Adelaide, so I never really thought they’d pick me.

I remember being jumped on by my family and everyone cheering and hugging.

It is a moment in my life that I’ll remember forever - just the joy of being able to share it with my family and friends was incredible and knowing that my hard work over the past few years was beginning to be noticed.

The following few hours were a bit of a blur.

From the moment my name was called, my phone didn’t stop buzzing with congratulatory messages.

Nicksy, Sloane and Tex were among those who rang me, and it was all so surreal.

I knew, though, that the hard work was just beginning and I couldn’t wait to get over to Adelaide to start my journey with the Crows.

Everything happened so fast after that, and before I knew it I was on the plane to Adelaide.

Reilly O’Brien, who I ended up living with, picked me up at Adelaide Airport and that helped to make the transition so much easier.

Every Draft Day story is different but it will be one of the best days of your life for those who get selected.

For me, as soon as I arrived at the Crows, I wanted to train hard and earn the respect of my new teammates.

But it’s also important to remember that it’s only the beginning of the journey.

Embrace the night - it’s certainly a culmination of a lot of hard work and sacrifice from you and your families - and be ready to get to work!